Background Check in College Towns

[Minh Lai]

Hello! 

I will be renting out a town house in a college town (Norman, OK). My question is should I charge a fee and use the money to do a background check? If they're a student I figure it wouldn't be needed. As for a credit check I assume that will not tell me much about the person. I'm more comfortable asking about their source of income and asking for verification.

What should I pay attention to in a background check?
Misdemeanors, felonies, debt

Where should I do my background check? 
In person at the state department? HERE
What's the easiest and cheapest way to do it? Do you recommend a site? 

On another note, any tips about the lease? 
I'm offering them a small discount if their parents co-sign the lease.